Mount Vernon City Schools has informed elementary parents about new requirements for child sexual abuse prevention instruction, following Ohio Senate Bill 288. The legislation, passed by the 134th General Assembly, mandates that schools provide age-appropriate education on this topic to students in kindergarten through sixth grade.
The law outlines specific responsibilities for schools, including providing instruction to students, notifying parents and legal guardians, and ensuring training for school staff.
To meet these requirements, the district will use Foundation United’s SPEAK UP curriculum. According to the school’s communication, “Utilizing research-based practices, Foundation United has designed a curriculum (SPEAK UP) that is intended to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to decrease the risk of sexual abuse from grades K-12.” The curriculum offers a progression: for kindergarten through second grade, lessons focus on safety awareness; third through fifth graders are taught how to recognize unsafe situations and respond appropriately.
Superintendent William Seder Jr. noted that families have different needs and emphasized parental choice regarding participation. "We understand that every family is unique, and the educational needs of each student may vary. As a result, the law allows parents and legal guardians to request that their child be excused from taking instruction in child sexual abuse prevention. Please complete the Google Opt-Out Form if you wish to opt your child out of this particular instruction. Your child's opt-out status will remain active through the 2025-2026 school year."
Parents are encouraged to reach out with questions or concerns about SPEAK UP. Last year, nearly all elementary students participated in the program.
Superintendent Seder closed by stating: "We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions or require further information regarding the SPEAK UP Curriculum. Last year, 98% of our elementary students participated in the SPEAK UP program. Our staff is available to assist and address any concerns you may have."
